Tigray leaders at the AU Summit demanded full implementation of the Pretoria peace agreement, which ended hostilities in 2022. Key issues include disarmament, return of displaced people, and territorial disputes. Political tensions persist within Tigray’s leadership, complicating the execution of the agreement. Ethiopia’s government claims progress is being made, while international observers highlight the need for continued engagement to resolve outstanding matters.
During the African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, leaders from Ethiopia’s Tigray region urged for the complete enforcement of the Pretoria agreement, which resolved the conflict between the federal government and Tigray rebels in 2022. The agreement mandates ceasefire, return of displaced persons, disarmament, humanitarian aid, and restoration of services in Tigray. As part of this process, a disarmament initiative aimed at demobilizing 371,971 combatants is currently underway, with 75,000 from Tigray targeted in its initial phase.
Tigrayan officials highlighted several unmet provisions of the Pretoria agreement, particularly regarding territorial disputes and the status of internally displaced individuals. Getachew Reda, president of Tigray’s interim administration, noted that many agreement aspects remain unaddressed, emphasizing that the international community should focus on the demobilization process post-disarmament. He articulated, “Many contents of the agreement have not been implemented.”
Debretsion Gebremichael, another key Tigrayan leader, recognized the cessation of hostilities as a significant achievement but called for expedited action concerning territorial restoration, withdrawal of non-ENDF forces, and resettling displaced persons. He referred to the presence of Eritrean and Amhara forces, for which the federal government has not provided adequate resolution. Ethiopia claims disputes in Western Tigray should be settled through a referendum.
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos asserted that positive engagement and adherence to the rule of law is essential for effective implementation of the peace agreement. He expressed confidence that the remaining measures can be fulfilled if the agreement is executed in good faith. Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo underscored the importance of phased resolution of the DDR program and contested areas, reinforcing the idea of African-led solutions to conflicts.
Political tensions persist between Tigray’s leadership, with Getachew and Debretsion at odds over the agreement’s implementation. Accusations of sabotaging regional interests have surfaced, with over 200 security commanders supporting Debretsion, claiming Getachew has betrayed Tigray. The TPLF recently expelled 15 members, including Getachew, from its central committee, further straining the political landscape.
The National Election Board of Ethiopia temporarily revoked TPLF’s political activities due to its failure to convene a general assembly, which TPLF rejected as interference. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged Tigrayan leaders to settle their disputes amicably, emphasizing dialogue and adherence to the national constitution for resolving conflicts with other factions or the federal government.
The AU Summit highlighted the urgent need for thorough implementation of the Pretoria agreement by Tigray leaders, who indicated significant unresolved issues pertaining to disarmament, territorial disputes, and the repatriation of internally displaced persons. The ongoing political conflict within Tigray further complicates these efforts, showcasing divisions between regional leaders and emphasizing the necessity for constructive dialogue and engagement. Stakeholders, including the AU and international community, are called upon to persistently support the peace process and address outstanding challenges.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
